Posture protector devices, systems and methods

ABSTRACT

A posture protector garment for providing proprioceptive feedback to a user to improve his or her posture. The posture protector garment has a pair of pants or shorts and a shirt. The shorts and shirt are formed from materials that stretch or move with the body of the user. A reinforced portion of the shorts and shirt is formed from a strap or other material having different mechanical properties than adjacent portions of the shorts and shirt to provide proprioceptive feedback to the user. The shirt is attachable to the shorts with a shirt strap. The shirt strap is under tension when the user has poor posture that can be sensed by the user.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to posture protector garments and, more particularly, to a posture protector garment configured to be worn on a user's body and which is adapted to improve and protect the user's body alignment, posture and/or appearance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The importance of good posture is well known among health professionals. Posture generally refers to the alignment of the body and, more specifically, to the relative static and dynamic positioning of the body and its limbs.

The effects of poor posture are well documented and include limited range of motion wherein muscles may be permanently shortened due to a hunched-over upper body position. Other effects of poor posture include discomfort in the form of headaches and pain in the shoulders, arms, and hands. One common consequence of poor posture is the onset of lower back pain. Finally, an improper posture and/or poor body conditioning can cause the body to appear unsightly and can lead to embarrassment and a poor self-image.

However, by assuming good posture, gravitational forces may be more evenly distributed through the bones, ligaments and muscles of the body. Maintaining good posture is equally important during static activities such as sitting and standing, as well as during dynamic activities such as walking, running, and lifting. Poor posture during static activities may result in forward protrusion of the head and neck, rounding of the thoracic and lumbar spine, stretching of the spinal ligaments and also causing abnormal tilting and rotation of the pelvis. This also puts added stress on the hips, joints and other portions of the lower body. Such stretching gradually causes pain in the neck, back and hips and results in fatiguing of the body's muscles and ligaments. Poor posture during dynamic activities such as running and lifting results in inefficient body movements with increased stress on muscles and ligaments.

Maintaining an awareness of proper posture during static and dynamic activities can sometimes prevent or reduce overstressing of muscles and ligaments. In addition, maintaining an awareness of proper posture may train certain muscles through muscle memory such that proper posture eventually becomes a habit. However, it is can be difficult to maintain an awareness of proper posture during mentally challenging activities such as working at a computer, or during physically challenging activities such as participating in sports.

Physical therapists may utilize postural therapy to improve the posture of a patient. Conventional chiropractic techniques may utilize body manipulation and treatment to help keep the patient's spine in alignment. However, the patient must take the time and energy to visit the offices of a physical therapist or a chiropractor in order to receive the needed postural therapy and/or chiropractic manipulation.

As such, there exists a need for a device that is adapted to continuously train and develop certain body muscles such that the user's posture may be improved. In addition, there exists a need for a device that allows for developing such muscle training during static activities such as standing and sitting, and during dynamic activities such as walking, running and during other daily activities.

Furthermore, there exists a need for a device for improving the user's posture that may be selectively adjusted in accordance with changes or improvements in the user's posture over time. There also exists a need for a device for improving the user's posture that may be adjusted according to varying physiological differences between users including differences in user's age, body size, muscular development and underlying pathophysiologic status.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the purpose(s) of this invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, this invention, in one aspect, relates to methods, devices and systems for improving and protecting a user's body alignment, posture and/or appearance.

A posture protector garment is disclosed for providing proprioceptive feedback to a user to improve his or her posture. In one aspect, the posture protector garment comprises a pair of pants or shorts and a shirt. The shorts and/or the shirt can be formed from materials having an elastic quality that stretches or moves with the body of the user.

The shorts can comprise at least one reinforced section positioned on a portion of the shorts. For example, the reinforced section can comprise straps, bands, tabs, stretch panels and/or grip layers and the like, attached to the shorts or sewn directly into the material used to fabricate the shorts. In another example, the reinforced section can be formed from a material having different mechanical properties than the adjacent material of the shorts.

In one aspect, the reinforced section of the shorts can comprise at least one leg band and/or at least one buttocks band. The leg band and the buttocks band can be positioned on the shorts so that when the shorts are worn by the user, the leg band and the buttocks band provide greater compression to the desired portion of the body than then adjacent materials of the shorts.

The shirt comprises at least one reinforced member on a portion of the shirt. For example, the reinforced member can comprise straps, bands, tabs, stretch panels and/or grip layers and the like, attached to the shirt or sewn directly into the material used to fabricate the shirt. In another example, the reinforced member can be formed from a material having different mechanical properties than the adjacent material of the shirt.

In one aspect, the reinforced member of the shirt can comprise at least one abdomen member and/or at least one shirt strap. The abdomen member can be positioned on the shirt so that when the shirt is worn by the user, the abdomen member provided greater compression to the abdomen portion of the body than then adjacent materials of the shirt. The shirt strap can be positioned on the shirt so that when the shirt is worn by the user, the shirt strap can couple the shirt to the shorts.

In use, a user can put on the shorts and shirt as with conventional garments. After the shorts are positioned as desired on the body of the user, any selectively adjustable leg bands and/or buttocks bands of the shorts can be adjusted to adjust the compression provided by the bands to a desired tension level. Any selectively adjustable abdomen members of the shirt can be adjusted to adjust the compression provided by the abdomen members to a desired tension level. The shirt strap can be attached to the shorts to couple the shirt to the shorts.

Upon proper adjustment and/or sizing of the shorts and shirt, the posture protector garment provides at least: proprioceptive feedback to improve posture; resistance and limitation to prevent poor posture; and improved physical appearance for the user.

Additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a posture protector garment, according to one aspect, showing a shirt and shorts.

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the posture protector garment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the posture protector garment of FIG. 1, showing the shorts and shirt coupled together.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the posture protector garment of FIG. 1.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description of the invention is provided as an enabling teaching of the invention in its best, currently known embodiment. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects of the invention described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present invention. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present invention can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present invention without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present invention are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present invention. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present invention and not in limitation thereof.

As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a strap” can include two or more such straps unless the context indicates otherwise.

Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention and the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previous and following description.

In one broad aspect, the present application comprises a posture protector garment and, more particularly, the present application comprises a posture protector garment configured to be worn on a user's body and which is specifically adapted to improve and protect the user's body alignment, posture and/or appearance.

With reference to the FIGS. 1-4, the posture protector garment 10 is configured to be worn by a user 12 and comprises a pair of pants or shorts 14, and a shirt 16. More specifically, the pair of pants or shorts (hereinafter referred to for clarity and convenience as simply “shorts”) can be configured to envelop at least a portion of the user's hips and legs, and the shirt 16 can be configured to envelop at least a portion of the user's torso. In one aspect and as shown in the figures, the shorts 14 can be a “pull-up” style of shorts. Optionally, in another aspect, the shorts can be provided with an open or partially open front, back or side portion, which is selectively closeable by means of known garment closure systems, such as a zipper, buttons, snaps, and the like. Similarly, the shirt 16 of the present application can appear to be similar to one of a sleeveless, short or long-sleeved undershirt, T-shirt and the like. While the shirt is illustrated in the figures as being a “pull-over” style shirt, in one aspect, the shirt 16 can be provided with an open or partially open front, back or side portion, which is selectively closeable by means of known garment closure systems, such as a zipper, buttons, snaps, and the like.

In one aspect and with regards to the position of the shorts 14 when being worn the user 12, the shorts comprise a front section 18, a rear section 20, a right leg section 22 and a left leg section 24. In another aspect, a shorts longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) can be defined that extends longitudinally through a center of the shorts. In yet another aspect, proprioceptive effects can be achieved through the use of at least one reinforced section 26 placed on at least a portion of the shorts. The reinforced section can be formed from a strap or other material having different mechanical properties than other, non-reinforced portions of the shorts. For example, the reinforced section 26 can comprise straps, bands, tabs, stretch panels and/or grip layers and the like, integrated directly into or sewn together, or sewn directly into the material used to fabricate the shorts 14. As described more fully below, the reinforced section 26 can be a section, layer or patch for cuing or stimulating the nerve receptors responsible for proprioceptive feedforward and feedback.

In one aspect, the at least one reinforced section 26 comprises a plurality of reinforced sections. In another aspect, the plurality of reinforced sections can comprise at least one leg band 28 configured to wrap around at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the right leg section 22 and/or the left leg section 24 of the shorts at a predetermined location relative to the longitudinal axis of the shorts.

The at least one leg band 28 can comprise a plurality of leg bands, according to one aspect. For example, a first leg band 28 a can be wrapped around at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the right leg section 22 of the shorts 14 at a first predetermined location relative to an upper end 30 of the shorts, and a second leg band 28 b can be wrapped around at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the left leg section 24 of the shorts at the first predetermined location relative to the upper end of the shorts. In another aspect, at least portions of the first leg band 28 a and the second leg band 28 b can be substantially parallel to each other. Optionally, at least portions of the first leg band and the second leg band can be substantially not parallel to each other. In yet another aspect, the first leg band 28 a and the second leg band 28 b can be substantial mirror images of each other relative to a plane that bisects the shorts 14 along the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts.

In another aspect, the plurality of leg bands 28 can further comprise a third leg band 28 c wrapped around at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the right leg section 22 of the shorts at a second predetermined location relative to the upper end of the shorts, and a fourth leg band 28 d can be wrapped around at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the left leg section 24 of the shorts at the second predetermined location relative to the upper end of the shorts. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the second predetermined location can be a smaller longitudinal distance from the upper end 30 of the shorts than the first predetermined location. It is contemplated however, that the second predetermined location can be a larger longitudinal distance from the upper end of the shorts 16 than the first predetermined location. In another aspect, at least portions of the first, second, third and/or fourth leg bands can be substantially parallel to each other. Optionally, at least portions of the first leg band 28 a, the second leg band 28 b, the third leg band 28 c, and/or the fourth leg band 28 d can be substantially not parallel to each other. As can be appreciated, any number of leg bands can be positioned on the shorts 14.

In one aspect, portions of the leg band 28 can be positioned at any angle relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts 14. That is, in one example, a first portion of the first leg band 28 a can be at a first leg angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shorts, and a second portion of the first leg band can be at a second leg angle relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts that is substantially the same as or different than the first angle. In another example, a portion of the first leg band 28 a can be at the first leg angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shorts, and a portion of the second leg band 28 b can be at the second leg angle relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts that is substantially the same as or different than the first leg angle. The first and second leg angles can be about 0 degrees, about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 25 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 35 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 45 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 55 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 65 degrees, about 70 degrees, about 75 degrees, about 80 degrees, about 85 degrees, about 90 degrees and greater than about 90 degrees.

The leg band 28 can have a predetermined band thickness. In one aspect, the predetermined band thickness of each leg band can be substantially constant. Alternatively, the predetermined band thickness can vary at different areas of the shorts 14. For example, the predetermined band thickness can be greater or less in the rear section 20 of the shorts than in the front section 18. In another aspect, the thickness of one leg band can be the same or different than the thickness of any other leg band 28.

In another aspect, the at least one reinforced section 26 can comprise at least one buttocks band 32 configured to wrap around at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the shorts 14 at a predetermined location relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts corresponding to the buttocks of the user when the shorts are worn. That is, at least one buttocks band can be positioned on the rear section 20 and/or the right leg section 22 of the shorts, and/or at least one buttocks band can be positioned on the rear section 20 and/or the left leg section 24 of the shorts 14. In a further aspect, the at least one buttocks band can comprise a plurality of buttocks bands. For example, a first buttocks band 32 a can be wrapped around a portion of the outer perimeter of the shorts at a predetermined location relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts, and a second buttocks band 32 b can be wrapped around a portion of the outer perimeter of the shorts that is spaced from the first buttocks band. At least portions of the first buttocks band 32 a and the second buttocks band can be substantially parallel to each other. Optionally, at least portions of the first buttocks band and the second buttocks band 32 b can be substantially not parallel to each other. In another aspect, the first buttocks band 32 a and the second buttocks band can be spaced from each other a predetermined distance that is substantially constant or that varies at different locations on the shorts. As can be appreciated, any number of buttocks bands can be positioned on the shorts 14.

In one aspect, portions of the buttocks band 32 can be positioned at any angle relative the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts. That is, in one example, a first portion of the first buttocks band 32 a can be at a first shorts angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shorts, and a second portion of the first buttocks band can be at a second shorts angle relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHORTS) of the shorts that is substantially the same as or different than the first shorts angle. In another example, a portion of the first buttocks band 32 a can be at the first shorts angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shorts, and a portion of the second buttocks band 32 b can be at the second shorts angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shorts that is substantially the same as or different than the first shorts angle. The first and second shorts angles can be about 0 degrees, about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 25 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 35 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 45 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 55 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 65 degrees, about 70 degrees, about 75 degrees, about 80 degrees, about 85 degrees, about 90 degrees and greater than about 90 degrees.

The buttocks band 32 can have a predetermined band thickness. In one aspect, the predetermined band thickness of each buttocks band can be substantially constant. Alternatively, the predetermined band thickness can vary at different areas of the shorts 14. For example, the predetermined band thickness can be greater or less in the rear section 20 of the shorts than in the front section 18. In another aspect, the thickness of one buttocks band 32 can be the same or different than the thickness of any other buttocks band.

The at least one leg band 28 and/or the at least one buttocks band 32 can be positioned and oriented on the shorts 14 so that when the shorts are worn by the user 12, the leg bands and/or the buttocks bands can concentrate the proprioceptive feedback for posture improvement. For example, the leg band 28 and/or the buttocks band 32 can be positioned and oriented to contact muscles of the leg, buttocks and/or hips that are underused and weak.

The shorts 14 can be formed from a material having an elastic quality that stretches or moves with the user's body, in order to provide a desirable form-fitting feature such that pressure may be readily applied to the surface of the user's skin in order to enhance neuromuscular stimulation thereto. The material can be, for example and without limitation, cotton, polyester, lycra, spandex, elastic, and nylon. In one aspect, the shorts can be formed from a combination of materials. In one aspect, the material can be tacky or provide grip on the skin of the user for providing the desired proprioceptive effects. Optionally, the shorts 14 can have metal ions woven into it, or other mechanical sweat wicking, temperature regulating materials which are known in the art and function to regulate temperature and wick moisture.

In one aspect, the at least one reinforced section 26 comprises a plurality of leg bands 28 and plurality of buttocks bands 32. In another aspect, the reinforced sections can be formed from a material having different mechanical properties than the adjacent material of the shorts 14. In another aspect, at least a portion of the leg bands and/or the buttocks bands can be formed from a material having different elastic properties than the adjacent material. For example, at least a portion of the leg band 28 and/or the buttocks band 32 can be formed from a material that provides greater compression to the body of the user than then adjacent materials.

In one aspect, the reinforced section 26 of the shorts 14 can be formed from shorts straps that can be selectively, adjustably affixed and unaffixed to the shorts as desired. In this aspect, an unattached portion of the shorts straps can be formed from and positioned over a hook and loop fastener that allow the user to selectively affix the shorts straps to the shorts and to adjust how much tension (or sensorimotor stimulation) on the muscle is comfortable, the specific direction of compression, and support, as described more fully below. As can be appreciated, any type of connection between the shorts straps and the shorts 14 is contemplated. For example, snaps, buttons, adhesive, hooks or the like can be used. In one aspect, if the reinforced section 26 comprises straps and the like, the straps can be selectively adjustable by the user, or alternatively, the straps can be integral with the garment and as such, non-adjustable.

In one aspect and with regards to the position of the shirt 16 when being worn the user 12, the shirt comprises a front section 36, a rear section 38, a right side section 40 and a left side section 42. As can be appreciated, a shirt longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) can be defined that extends through a neck hole and a lower end 46 of the shirt. In another aspect, proprioceptive effects can be achieved through the use of at least one reinforced member 48 placed on at least a portion of the shirt. The reinforced member can be formed from a strap or other material having different mechanical properties than other, non-reinforced portions of the shirt. For example, the reinforced member 48 can comprise straps, bands, tabs, stretch panels and/or grip layers, integrated directly into or sewn together, or sewn directly into the material used to fabricate the shirt 16. As described more fully below, the reinforced member 48 can be a section, layer or patch for cuing or stimulating the nerve receptors responsible for proprioceptive feedforward and feedback.

In one aspect, the at least one reinforced member 48 comprises a plurality of reinforced members. In another aspect, the plurality of reinforced members can comprise at least one abdomen member 50 can be configured to wrap around at least a portion of the shirt 16 at a first predetermined location relative to the lower end of the shirt. In a further aspect, the at least one abdomen member can comprise a plurality of abdomen members. For example, a first abdomen member 50 a can be wrapped around at least a portion of the right side section 40 of the shirt (corresponding to a portion of the abdomen of the user when worn) at the first predetermined location relative to the lower end 46, and a second abdomen member 50 b can be wrapped around at least a portion of the left side section 42 of the shirt 16 at the first predetermined location relative to the lower end of the shirt. In another aspect, at least portions of the first abdomen member and the second abdomen member can be substantially parallel to each other. Optionally, at least portions of the first abdomen member 50 a and the second abdomen member 50 b can be substantially not parallel to each other. In yet another aspect, the first abdomen member and the second abdomen member can be substantial mirror images of each other relative to a plane that bisects the shirt 16 along the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt.

In another aspect, the plurality of abdomen members 50 can comprise at third abdomen member 50 c wrapped around at least a portion of the right side section 40 of the shirt 16 at a second predetermined location relative to the lower end 46 of the shirt. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the second predetermined location can be a greater longitudinal distance from the lower end of the shirt than the first predetermined location. Similarly, a fourth abdomen member 50 d can be wrapped around at least a portion of the left side section 42 of the shirt at the second predetermined location relative to the lower end of the shirt 16. In one aspect, at least portions of the first abdomen member and the third abdomen member can be substantially identical to each other, and at least portions of the second abdomen member and the fourth abdomen member can be substantially identical to each other. Optionally, the first abdomen member 50 a and the third abdomen member 50 c can be substantially identical to each other, and the second abdomen member 50 b and the fourth abdomen member 50 d can be substantially identical to each other. In yet another aspect, at least portions of the first abdomen member 50 a, the second abdomen member 50 b, the third abdomen member 50 c, and the fourth abdomen member 50 d can be substantially parallel to each other. Optionally, at least a portion of at least one of the first abdomen member, the second abdomen member, the third abdomen member, and the fourth abdomen member can be at an acute angle relative to each other. As can be appreciated, any number of abdomen members 50 can be positioned on the shirt 16.

In one aspect, portions of each abdomen member 50 can be positioned at any angle relative the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt 16. That is, in one example, a first portion of the first abdomen member 50 a can be at a first shirt angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shirt, and a second portion of the first abdomen member can be at a second shirt angle relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt that is substantially the same as or different than the first shirt angle. In another example, a portion of the first abdomen member 50 a can be at the first shirt angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shirt, and a portion of the second abdomen member 50 b can be at the second shirt angle relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt 16 that is substantially the same as or different than the first shirt angle. The first and second shirt angles can be about 0 degrees, about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 25 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 35 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 45 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 55 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 65 degrees, about 70 degrees, about 75 degrees, about 80 degrees, about 85 degrees, about 90 degrees and greater than about 90 degrees.

The abdomen member 50 can have a predetermined member thickness. In one aspect, the predetermined member thickness of each abdomen member can be substantially constant. Alternatively, the predetermined abdomen member thickness can vary at different areas of the shirt 16. For example, the predetermined member thickness can be greater or less in the rear section 38 of the shirt than in the front section 36. In another aspect, the thickness of one abdomen member 50 can be the same or different than the thickness of any other abdomen member.

The at least one abdomen member 50 of the shirt can be positioned and oriented on the shirt 16 so that when the shirt is worn by the user 12, the abdomen member can concentrate the proprioceptive feedback for posture improvement. For example, the abdomen member 50 can be positioned and oriented to contact muscles of the abdomen that are underused and weak.

The shirt 16 can be formed from a material having an elastic quality that stretches or moves with the user's body, in order to provide a desirable form-fitting feature such that pressure may be readily applied to the surface of the user's skin in order to enhance neuromuscular stimulation thereto. The material can be, for example and without limitation, cotton, polyester, lycra, spandex, elastic, nylon. In one aspect, the shirt can be formed from a combination of materials. In one aspect, the material can be tacky or provide grip on the skin of the user for providing the desired proprioceptive effects. Optionally, the shirt 16 can have metal ions woven into it, or other mechanical sweat wicking, temperature regulating materials which are known in the art and function to regulate temperature and wick moisture. In another aspect, at least a portion of the shirt can be formed from the same material as the shorts 14. Alternatively, at least a portion of the shirt 16 can be formed from different material than the shorts.

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, in one aspect, the reinforced member 48 of the shirt 16 comprises a plurality of abdomen members 50. In one aspect, the reinforced members can be formed from a material having different mechanical properties than the adjacent material of the shirt. In another aspect, at least a portion of the abdomen members can be formed from a material having different elastic properties than the adjacent material. For example, at least a portion of the abdomen member 50 can be formed from a material that provides greater compression to the body of the user 12 than then adjacent materials of the shirt.

In another aspect, the reinforced member 48 of the shirt 16 can be shirt tabs that can be selectively, adjustably affixed and unaffixed to the shirt as desired. In this aspect, an unattached portion of the shirt tabs can be formed from and positioned over a hook and loop fastener that allow the user to selectively affix the shirt tabs to the shirt and to adjust how much tension (or sensorimotor stimulation) on the muscle is comfortable, the specific direction of compression, and support, as described more fully below. As can be appreciated, any type of connection between the shirt tabs and the shirt 16 is contemplated. For example, snaps, buttons, adhesive, hooks or the like can be used. In one aspect, if the reinforced member 48 comprises shirt tabs and the like, the tabs can be selectively adjustable by the user, or alternatively, the tabs can be integral with the shirt and as such, non-adjustable.

The shirt 16 can be configured for selective attachment to the shorts 14. In one aspect, the rear section 38 of the shirt can be configured for selective attachment to a portion of the rear section 20 of the shorts 14. In another aspect, the rear section of the shirt can extend longitudinally beyond the front section 36 of the shirt. That is, a portion of the rear section of the shirt can comprise a “shirt tail 44” that hangs lower on the user 12 when the shirt is worn.

In one aspect, the reinforced member 48 of the shirt 16 can further comprise at least one shirt strap 54 that can be selectively, adjustably affixed and unaffixed to the shorts 14 as desired. In another aspect, a portion of the shirt strap can be positioned on the rear section 38 or shirt tail 44 of the shirt. For example, the shirt strap can be integrated directly into or sewn to the shirt. Optionally, the shirt strap 54 can be removably attached to the rear section 38 of the shirt 16 with hook and loops fasteners and the like. An unattached portion of the shirt strap can be formed from a hook and loop fastener and positioned over a mating hook and loop fastener positioned on the shorts 14 when the shorts and shirt are worn by the user 12. In one aspect, the shirt strap 54 can allow the user to selectively affix the strap (and therefore the shirt) to the shorts 14 and to adjust how much tension (or sensorimotor stimulation) on the muscles is comfortable, the specific direction of compression, and support, as described more fully below. As can be appreciated, any type of connection between the shorts 14 and the shirt 16 is contemplated. For example, snaps, buttons, adhesive, hooks or the like can be used.

In a further aspect, the at least one shirt strap 54 can comprise a plurality of shirt straps. For example, a first shirt strap 54 a can be positioned on least a portion of the rear, right side section 40 of the shirt (corresponding to a portion of the back of the user when worn) at a first predetermined location relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt 16, and a second shirt strap 54 b can be positioned on at least a portion of the rear, left side section 42 of the shirt 16 at the first predetermined location relative to the longitudinal axis. In another aspect, at least portions of the first shirt strap 54 a and the second shirt strap 54 b can be substantially parallel to each other. Optionally, at least portions of the first shirt strap and the second shirt strap can be substantially not parallel to each other. In yet another aspect, the first shirt strap 54 a and the second shirt strap 54 b can be substantial mirror images of each other relative to a plane that bisects the shirt 16 along the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt.

In one aspect, portions of each shirt strap 54 can be positioned at any angle relative the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt 16. That is, in one example, a first portion of the first shirt strap 54 a can be at a first shirt strap angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shirt, and a second portion of the first shirt strap can be at a second shirt strap angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shirt that is substantially the same as or different than the first shirt strap angle. In another example, a portion of the first shirt strap 54 a can be at the first shirt strap angle relative to the longitudinal axis L_(SHIRT) of the shirt, and a portion of the second shirt strap 54 b can be at the second shirt strap angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shirt 16 that is substantially the same as or different than the first shirt strap angle. The first and second shirt strap angles can be about 0 degrees, about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 25 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 35 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 45 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 55 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 65 degrees, about 70 degrees, about 75 degrees, about 80 degrees, about 85 degrees, about 90 degrees and greater than about 90 degrees.

The shirt strap 54 can have a predetermined member thickness. In one aspect, the predetermined member thickness of each shirt strap can be substantially constant. Alternatively, the predetermined abdomen member thickness can vary at different areas of the strap. For example, the predetermined shirt strap thickness can be greater or less in the in different areas of the strap. For example, the predetermined shirt strap thickness can be greater or less in the rear section 38 of the shirt than in the front section 36. In another aspect, the thickness of one shirt strap 54 can be the same or different than the thickness of any other shirt strap.

It is contemplated that different versions of the shorts 14 and/or shirt 16 can be provided for different users and for different conditions to be corrected. In one aspect, of course different size shorts and shirts can be provided for different size users. Additionally, in another aspect, the compressive strength of the reinforced section 26 of the shorts, and/or the reinforced member 48 of the shirt can be selected for different users and for different conditions to be corrected. For example, the compressive strength of the leg band 28 can be selected based on the size of the user, the degree of poor posture of the user and the like. That is, a user having a greater slouch could select shorts having a higher tension exerted by the leg band than a user having a lesser slouch. Thus, shirts 16 and shorts 14 can be provided to users in varying sizes and/ or with varying levels of tension provided by the reinforced section 26 of the shorts, and/or the reinforced member 48 of the shirt.

In use, a user 12 can put on the shorts 14 as like conventional shorts. After the shorts are positioned as desired on the body of the user, in one aspect, the shorts 14 can be selectively adjusted. That is, any adjustable leg band 28 and/or buttocks band 32 of the shorts can be adjusted to adjust the compression provided by the bands to a desired tension level. For example, if the adjustable leg band comprises a hook and loop fastener, the user can pull an unaffixed band portion and couple the unaffixed band portion to a portion of the shorts 14. This can then be repeated for each adjustable leg band 28 and/or buttocks band 32 of the shorts.

A user can put on the shirt 16 as like a conventional shirt. After the shirt is positioned as desired on the body of the user 12, in one aspect, the shirt can be selectively adjusted. That is, any adjustable abdomen member 50 of the shirt can be adjusted to adjust the compression provided by the abdomen member to a desired tension level. For example, if the adjustable abdomen member comprises a hook and loop fastener, the user can pull an unaffixed abdomen member portion to the desired tension level and couple the unaffixed abdomen member to a portion of the shirt 16. This can then be repeated for each adjustable abdomen member of the shirt.

The shirt strap 54 can be attached to the shorts 14 to couple the shirt to the shorts. For example, if the shirt strap comprises a hook and loop fastener, the user 12 can pull an unaffixed portion of each shirt strap to the desired tension level and couple the unaffixed portion or each shirt strap to a portion of the shorts 14 at the desired tension level. This can then be repeated for each shirt strap of the shirt.

In use and adjusted as desired, the shirt 16 and shorts 14 provide at least one of: 1) proprioceptive feedback to improve posture; 2) resistance and limitation to prevent poor posture; 3) compressive lumbosacral support for low back pain improvement; 4) improved physical appearance; and 5) no rigid support that would limit muscle utilization.

For example, because of the attachment of the shirt 16 to the shorts 14, any forward lean or slouching of the user 12 would cause the rear section 38 of the shirt to rise up relative to the shorts. This increases the tension on the shirt strap 54 and the user would feel this tension. This feedback signals the user to improve his or her posture. Similarly, this tension could exert a force on the user that limits or reduces the amount of forward lean of the user. The abdomen member 50 and/or the buttocks band 32 can compress and/or support portions of the lumbosacral region to reduce back pain of the user. Of course, the abdomen member can compress the abdomen to provide an improved physical appearance of the user. Because there is no rigid support provided, there is no limitation to muscle utilization resulting in improved muscle tone and diminished muscle wasting

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Other aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A posture protector garment configured to be worn on a user's body and which is adapted to improve and protect the user's body alignment, posture and/or appearance, as described herein.
 2. A method of improving and protecting the body alignment, posture and/or appearance of a user as described herein. 